The phase of pregnancy is very delicate for both the mother and the baby. Hormonal changes and mood swings are all part of the game, and there are many dos and don’ts a pregnant woman should follow. The hormonal changes can make it difficult for the body to adjust to temperatures. It is normal for a mother-to-be to find the house stuffy, even though it isn’t. Most of us opt to use an air conditioner in such situations, but is an air conditioner safe during pregnancy?
According to standard perceptions, pregnant women should stay away from ACs or use them minimally to avoid catching a cold, getting a fever, or getting sick. But no one knows how true it is. So, let’s unravel some myths and find out the reasons why it is important for pregnant mommies to use ACs.
In This Article
- Does Exposure to Hot Weather Affect the Normal Progression of Pregnancy?
- Why Expecting Mothers Need Air Conditioning?
- FAQ’s
Does Exposure to Hot Weather Affect the Normal Progression of Pregnancy?
Pregnant women must avoid exposure to extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. Studies show that staying in an extremely hot or cold area during the initial seven weeks of pregnancy can cause preterm delivery. The exact reason for this phenomenon is still unknown. The risk can actually increase by 6 to 21 percent at 34 weeks and 36-38 weeks of pregnancy, respectively.
Some researchers suggest that the stress expecting mothers face in extreme temperatures may get in the way of the normal development of the placenta, or it may alter the flow of blood to the uterus. Either way, it can increase the chances of preterm labor.
Why Expecting Mothers Need Air Conditioning?
Earlier in the article, we mentioned that, contrary to the popular belief, the air conditioner is safe during pregnancy. We now explain why expecting mothers need air conditioning.
1. Fresh Air is a Must in Pregnancy
It is not very uncommon for pregnant women to spend the crucial last few months inside the home, and this is the time when the quality of air one breathes really matters. Good quality air is important both for the mother and the unborn baby. Without adequate air conditioning, the home environment cannot provide enough circulation of fresh air. In addition, hot and humid air can cause inconvenience and health issues for the mother and the growing fetus. For example, excess humidity in the home can lead to the formation of mold.
Having an adequate and properly serviced air conditioner at home assures that the air in the house stays devoid of all sorts of pollen, dust, and various other allergens that can easily enter the home through the duct. Fit air filters for wall-mounted ACs or use air purifiers to reduce exposure to PM2.5 & PM10 particles. 3M Electrostatic Air conditioner filters help you keep the indoor air clean.
2. It Is Mandatory to Get Adequate Sleep and Rest
The quality and quantity of sleep you get during pregnancy have a major influence on you as well as your little one. Mothers with improper sleep patterns during pregnancy can give birth to babies with low birth weight or premature babies. Too high temperatures at night, especially during summers, can cause the expecting mother to have less sleep.
Having a properly installed air conditioning system not only purifies the air allergens. It also helps to fight heat issues in summers leading to proper sleep and comfort which is a mandate for pregnant mothers. It is extremely important for a pregnant woman to get ample rest and comfort during these nine months, as it directly affects the baby as well.
[Read: 8 Cool Ways To Handle A Summer Pregnancy]
3. One is Prone to Get Sultry and Sweaty During Pregnancy
Heat intolerance is a common cause among pregnant women. This can happen due to hormonal imbalances, weight gain, lack of movement, and changes in the diet. All these together can lead to excessive sweating and make the expecting mother uneasy and uncomfortable. A proper air conditioning system helps cool down the body and creates a comfortable temperature and space.
Hormonal changes and mood swings make the pregnant woman uncomfortable while increasing the chances of fluctuation in blood pressure levels and headaches. For these reasons, having an AC becomes mandatory, especially when living in extreme temperatures.
4. Less Mobility During the First Nine Months
Generally, pregnant women experience swollen feet and ankles. Swollen feet are a common phenomenon, especially during summers. Because of these and many other reasons, an expecting woman prefers to stay indoors. Having an adequate air conditioning system helps in the entire phase of pregnancy.
Pregnancy is a phase that is different for different ladies. Some find it a cakewalk, while some go through many difficulties. In either case, with lesser movements and other restrictions, a pregnant woman must stay careful to ensure a comfortable pregnancy and a safe delivery. When staying at home, she should feel at ease and comfortable, as mothers should stay happy during the entire nine months for a healthy and happy baby.
Therefore, it is important to ensure that expecting mothers get a relaxing and comforting environment, along with a proper and healthy diet. Now when go back to the question ” is an air conditioner safe during pregnancy”, the answer is it is crucial for pregnant women to stay free from allergens and get proper and fresh air. For these reasons, an air conditioner during pregnancy is safe and a must.
[Read: Hot Flashes During Pregnancy]
FAQ’s
1. Can I Sleep in AC Room While Pregnant?
Yes, you can. It is perfectly safe. Ensure you get enough fresh air during the day.
2. What Should My AC Temperature be During Pregnancy?
It should not be too cold. It might increase your cramps. Your body temperature should be maintained.
3. Will Sleeping in AC Room During Pregnancy, Give Me a Cold?
Many people believe it can. However, there is no scientific backing to this. Just keep away from the direct line of cold air and extreme cold settings. Maintain a moderate temperature that is cool and comfortable for you.
4. Can I Get Sinus During Pregnancy, If I Stay in an AC Room?
If you are in the direct line of the cold air, you can. The cold air hitting your face continuously is not healthy. Move away from the blow.
5. Can Cold Temperatures Or AC Cause Frequent Urination?
Yes, they can. Your body has to reduce heat loss when the temperature drops. Vasoconstriction (constricting the blood vessels) is a method that the body uses to accomplish this. Due to the constriction of blood vessels, the blood flow toward the surface of the skin reduces. Thereby, the heat escaping through the skin considerably goes down. Consequently, the blood pressure rises too. The kidneys pull out the excess water into the bladder in order to maintain pressure, which causes you to urinate more often.
6. Can AC Cause Headaches During Pregnancy?
Yes, it can. Trigeminal nerves are stimulated by cold temperatures. This results in constrictions in the blood vessels of the brain, leading to headaches.
7. Can Stay In Rooms With AC Cause Dry Eyes During Pregnancy?
The answer is yes. There is a loss of humidity in air-conditioned rooms, especially at low temperatures. When the air becomes extremely dry, the watery tear film evaporates, resulting in dry eyes.
Read Also: Why Pregnant Moms Need Air Conditioning
